The holidays are a time of excitement for families, but for pets they can bring stress, routine changes, and even tummy troubles. With October recognized as Pet Wellness Month, it is the perfect reminder to focus on one of the most important yet often overlooked parts of your pet’s health: their digestion. 

At PetSuites, we are proud to partner with Purina to explore the role of digestion in overall wellness, how stress and seasonal events can disrupt healthy digestion, the benefits of probiotics, and how Pro Plan Veterinary Supplements FortiFlora® can help support your pet through the holidays and beyond! 

Why Digestive Health Matters for Dogs 

Your dog’s digestive system does far more than process food. It is the foundation for how they absorb nutrients, maintain energy, and fight off illness. In fact, about 70% of a dog’s immune system is housed in the gut, making digestive health central to their overall wellness (Vighi, G., Marcucci, F., Sensi, L., Di Cara, G., & Frati, F. , Clinical and Experimental Immunology, 2008).

A balanced digestive system supports everything from a healthy coat and weight to long-term vitality. When the digestive tract is out of balance, problems often appear quickly. Some of the most common signs of digestive upset include: 

• Vomiting or diarrhea 

• Loss of appetite or changes in eating habits 

• Gas or bloating 

• Restlessness or signs of abdominal discomfort 

These symptoms may seem minor at first, but if they continue, they can lead to dehydration, nutrient loss, or ongoing discomfort. There are many reasons why digestive health can be disrupted. Stress, age-related changes in gut bacteria, or eating new or inappropriate foods can all upset digestion.  

The holiday season brings many of these factors together, making it a particularly challenging time for pets. With extra commotion in the home, changes to routine, and the temptation of rich table scraps, dogs may be more prone to stomach upset. That is why it is especially important to understand how seasonal stressors can impact digestion and take steps to protect your dog during these busy months. 

Holiday Stressors That Can Upset Digestion 

The fall and winter holidays are full of excitement for us, but for dogs they can bring stress and digestive challenges. 

• Halloween: Constant doorbell rings, costumed visitors, and candy temptations can leave dogs anxious or worse, sick if they sneak chocolate, candy or other toxic items. 

• Thanksgiving and Christmas: Family gatherings disrupt routines. Guests may slip pets table scraps like fatty turkey skin or gravy which can cause upset stomachs. Traveling or boarding during this time can also lead to stress-related diarrhea. 

• Other holiday stressors: New environments, loud noises, and separation from their favorite people all play a role in how pets feel and digest food. 

Supporting your dog’s digestive health during these busy times helps them stay comfortable and resilient. One way to give them extra support is by adding a daily probiotic, which can help maintain balance in the gut and ease the effects of stress, diet changes, and seasonal disruptions. 

How Probiotics Help Dogs Thrive 

Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that live in your dog’s digestive tract and help keep the gut balanced. They are best known for supporting healthy digestion and relieving occasional diarrhea, but research has shown their benefits extend far beyond the stomach. According to Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, probiotics can also help counter urinary tract infections, support immune system disorders, and even play a role in easing anxiety in dogs. 

One of the most exciting areas of probiotic research is the link between gut health and mental health. The gastrointestinal tract and brain are in constant communication, and maintaining the right balance of bacteria in the intestines can positively influence emotional regulation. Studies suggest that dogs receiving the right probiotic support may show fewer stress-related behaviors, such as excessive barking or pacing, and may feel more comfortable exploring new environments. This connection between the gut and the brain makes probiotics an important tool not only for digestive health but also for overall behavioral wellness. 

Probiotics also play a protective role by normalizing the conditions in the digestive tract. They compete with harmful bacteria such as Salmonella for nutrients, limiting their growth and reducing the risk of illness. Because different strains of probiotics deliver different benefits, choosing a product that has been carefully studied and proven effective in dogs is key.

Meet FortiFlora® by Pro Plan

That is where FortiFlora® by Pro Plan comes in. Trusted by veterinarians, FortiFlora is the number one recommended dog probiotic brand for supporting digestive health (Relevation Veterinary Tracker, 2023). 

FortiFlora contains a unique strain of beneficial bacteria, Enterococcus faecium SF68, which has been extensively studied in dogs. Benefits include: 

• Promotes intestinal health and balance 

• Helps manage occasional diarrhea 

• Supports a strong immune system with added antioxidants 

• Gentle enough for puppies and adult dogs 

• Easy to feed, simply sprinkle the powder onto your dog’s regular food 

FortiFlora also carries the NASC Quality Seal, meaning it has been independently reviewed for safety and quality. 

Ready to support your dog’s digestion and overall wellness? Shop Purina Pro Plan FortiFlora® for Dogs 

Have a cat at home too? Cats can experience digestive issues too, especially during times of stress or diet changes.

FortiFlora® for Cats offers the same trusted probiotic support to help maintain balance and overall wellness. Support their digestive and immune health with Purina Pro Plan FortiFlora® for Cats

Holiday Tips for Pet Parents 

Alongside adding FortiFlora to your dog’s routine, here are some final tips for keeping your pup’s digestion happy during the holidays: 

• Stick to their diet: Avoid table scraps and sudden food changes. 

• Create a safe space: Give your pet a quiet area to retreat from guests and noise. 

• Provide enrichment: Exercise, puzzle feeders, and playtime reduce stress. 

• Monitor symptoms: If your dog has vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than two days, call your veterinarian. 

Keep Your Pet Happy and Healthy This Season 

As we celebrate Pet Wellness Month and head into the holidays, now is the perfect time to focus on your pet’s digestion. With daily routines and trusted supplements like FortiFlora® by Pro Plan, you can help your pet stay healthy and comfortable all season long and beyond. 

When you need extra support this holiday season, whether it is boarding, daycare, or grooming, your local PetSuites team is here to keep your furry family member happy, comfortable, and cared for. For even more seasonal tips and advice, be sure to explore all of our pet parent guides to help your pet thrive year-round!